5 Steps to Picking the Perfect Shower Enclosure

If you have a shower that is set apart from the bath, also called a freestanding shower or a shower unit, you will generally have doors or some sort of enclosure to keep the water in, and also to provide some privacy. The exception to the shower enclosure rule is when you have a wet room or shower room, where the water can go everywhere. If you are remodelling your bathroom you have plenty of choice in shower enclosures, from walk-in enclosures to quadrant enclosures, simple panel doors, and frameless showers. Here's what you need to know about choosing a shower enclosure for your bathroom.

1. Measure the Space in Your Bathroom?

The space you have available in the bathroom affects what type of shower enclosure you need. When you have a large bathroom you could choose a walk-in enclosure, a steam shower cubicle, or a wet room as part of the overall bathroom. Smaller bathrooms may need a shower enclosure with a pivoting or folding door. Of course, shower units can also be built over baths so that if you only have space for a bath you can still enjoy the convenience of a shower fitting.

2. Decide Where You Will Place the Shower

Think about where you are going to position the shower unit. If it is in the corner you can find some space-saving corner units with curved doors ? quadrant shower cabins are ideal in smaller spaces. Or it may be in a separate area that is enclosed by panels on three sides ? this is ideal for a steam shower, or frameless shower enclosure for the design effect. When you are remodelling, consider the hassle of having to relocate plumbing. You may want to put your shower in the same place as the old unit in order to minimise the fuss of redecorating.

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3. Figure Out If You Want a Tray

Modern shower cubicles often come with a tray attached which means you do not need to worry about buying a separate tray that fits the shower. Trays are useful as they prevent leakage and hold the water in one place. You may decide not to have a tray when the shower is placed directly over the floor, which has a drain ? these showers are popular in modern bathrooms with frameless enclosures or in wet rooms.

4. Plan Your Tiling or Decorating

If you are building a wet room then all walls and the floor need to be tiled and properly sealed. If you are installing a shower unit then tiling is not needed as the glass on all sides will protect the walls from the water. For walk-in showers you can use a tray on the floor to limit tiling.

5. Think about Optional Extras

Installing a new shower unit is the ideal time to think about whether you want to upgrade your shower with additional extras like body jets, a steam shower fitting, an in-shower music system, or a powerful showerhead, rain head shower, or overhead shower head. A variety of extras are available in all budget ranges.

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Image courtesy of jtspas.co.uk